FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions – For the Public

Q: Where are the Group Lifestyle BalanceTM classes held?A: The Group Lifestyle BalanceTM program is offered in several places across the country. Check the Current Programs to inquire what is currently available in your area.

Q: How long is the Group Lifestyle BalanceTM Program?A: The program is one year long. The program includes:

Core – consisting of 12 weekly sessions

Transition – consisting of 4 bi-weekly/monthly sessions

Support – consisting of 6 monthly sessions

Q: How long is each session?A: Each session is approximately 1 hour long.

Q: Do I have to attend every session?A: In order to be successful in making lifestyle changes, it is important to make a commitment to the program. Attending the sessions plays a big part in achieving your goals. You should discuss how you will handle missed sessions with your group leader.

Q: How do I know if I qualify for the Group Lifestyle BalanceTM program?A: Generally, if you are at least 18 years old, are overweight and have either pre–diabetes or the metabolic syndrome you may qualify for the program. Please check with your local contact to find out if you qualify.

Q: Is Group Lifestyle BalanceTM a weight loss program?A: The Group Lifestyle BalanceTM is a lifestyle change program which focuses on healthy eating and increasing physical activity. The program goals include weight loss of 5-7% and increasing physical activity to 150 minutes of brisk physical activity each week. The GLB focuses on 3 components: nutrition, activity and behavioral changes. As a result of making healthy lifestyle changes many individuals do lose weight, as well as reduce their risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Q: I am worried about the physical activity part of the program and haven’t been very active in the past. What kind of physical activity will I have to do for this program? Do I have to join a gym or buy any special equipment?A: The Group Lifestyle BalanceTM program is designed to help you gradually and safely reach a goal of 150 minutes of physical activity per week. You will start out slowly and work up to your goal. If you haven’t been active in the past, it’s important to have your physician’s approval before increasing your level of activity. A referral form will need to be completed by your physician.

Many people in the program use walking as their main form of physical activity, but there are many ways to be active. This is something that you will learn about in the program. You do not need to join a gym or buy any special equipment, although it is suggested that you wear a good pair of shoes that are appropriate to the activity you are engaging in.

Q: How do I know if I have pre-diabetes?A: There are several simple blood tests that your physician may ask you to complete to determine pre-diabetes. Many people have pre–diabetes or diabetes and don’t know it. To find out if you are at risk, take our Diabetes Risk Test.

Q: How do I know if I am “at-risk” for diabetes?A: Complete the Diabetes Risk Test. If you score a 10 or higher you should discuss having a fasting blood glucose test with your health care provider. Some ethnicities are at higher risk for diabetes including Hispanic/Latino, African American, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander.

Q: What if I take the diabetes risk test and find out that I am at “at-risk” for diabetes?A: It would be wise to make an appointment with your physician so that he or she can determine whether or not you have diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Q: What if I have seen my physician and find out that I do not have diabetes or pre-diabetes but only the risk factors?A: Because you have risk factors for diabetes, it is important that you continue to follow up regularly with your physician for check-ups and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What is the metabolic syndrome and how do I know if I have it?A: The metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors of a metabolic origin that increase the risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. It is characterized by abdominal obesity (“apple” shape), dyslipidemia–(abnormal blood fat levels), elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance, and high blood sugars.

If you are concerned that you may have the metabolic syndrome, please discuss this with your physician. You may be eligible for the Group Lifestyle BalanceTM program.